Performance Arts

Speech and Debate

This class provides students with opportunities to write and present speeches, to work on oral interpretation, and to hone debating skills. Topics covered in class include the oral presentation skills of articulation, pronunciation, projection, posture, and stage presence.

Theatre

This is a class for students who want to learn about and take part in all of the different areas of the exciting and magical world of theatre. Acting is explored through exercises, creative dramatics (including improv), and discussions. Students are exposed to technical theatre through involvement in preparation of and participation in school productions. Each semester culminates with a final project.

Choir

This graded, elective course provides an opportunity for students to develop their musical potential through singing in a choral ensemble. Focus on a beautiful tone, breathing, extension of the vocal range, sight-reading, learning to execute the technical aspects of music and responsible rehearsal habits are emphasized.

Students carefully prepare music used in the Chapel service, sacred anthems, classical music, and secular music. Students provide community service programs and participate in competitions. Concerts are given at Christmas, in the spring, and at graduation.

Prerequisite: Ability to match pitch and maintain a tonal center while singing accompanied or a cappella. Students new to STE or to the STE choir must audition with the respective choir director prior to enrolling in the course.

String Ensemble

Students with prior experience and the appropriate level of note reading and technical skills on violin, viola, cello and bass are instructed in orchestral technique, ensemble, and performance. Different musical periods and their stylistic characteristics are explored and performed. Classes offer opportunities for students to develop leadership and independence playing solos with the orchestra. Performing opportunities include Chapel services, Christmas and spring concerts, competitions, and community concerts and activities. Advanced students may audition for region and all-state honor orchestras.

Prerequisites: Students new to STE must audition with the strings instructor.

Private Instruction

Private music lessons in piano, voice, organ, violin, viola, cello, flute, and guitar are offered. A very fine group of teachers has been engaged to provide this convenient service. Quarterly and yearend recitals are held to provide students several performance opportunities.